The Accused

October 10, 1992|By Mary Coffey.

EVERGREEN PARK — The articles concerning the suburban priest accused of sexual abuse seem to prove one thing-the concept of ``innocent until proven guilty`` is no longer in vogue with reporter Cheryl Lavin. Six investigations have not proven the allegations to be true, yet Lavin`s unbalanced presentation vilifies the priest in question. His accusers` names were changed. The priest was not given the same opportunity to protect his good name.

A crucial element in determining the truth in such cases is the reliability and stability of the complaining witnesses. Lavin brushes off any question of the instability of the priest`s accusers as an attempt to smear the victims.

Matt, ``sleeping with a knife under his pillow,`` is definitely a troubled young man. Whether that condition was caused by the priest or whether the accusations are a result of that condition is a serious question that many have found more difficult to answer than Lavin.

No one is in favor of child abuse or sweeping offenses under the rug. But let us not allow the serious search for truth, let alone the possibility of irreparable damage to innocent victims-be they abused children or falsely accused adults-to be made hostage to circulation-building sensationalism.